The Rotary Club of Carindale Supports Mental Health Through the Blue Tree Project
The Rotary Club of Carindale is committed to raising awareness about the importance of mental health in our community. One of the ways we are doing this is by supporting the Blue Tree Project Foundation — a national initiative that encourages conversations about mental health by painting dead trees blue. You can learn more at www.bluetreeproject.com.au.
Our connection to this inspiring project began when one of our members, Professor Doug Hargreaves, noticed several striking blue-painted trees while travelling in south-west Western Australia. Intrigued, he discovered the story behind the Blue Tree Project and returned to share it with our club. Doug’s passion and leadership sparked our own commitment to bring the initiative to life here in Brisbane.
Thanks to the generous support of the Brisbane City Council, Independent Arboriculturist Services, Boston Tree Care, Taubman’s Paints, Higgins Coatings, and Signcraft, our first blue tree was created in the community — with all services provided free of charge.
Our second blue tree now stands proudly on the grounds of Belmont State School, with all the work carried out by our Rotary members.
Both trees are officially listed on the Blue Tree Project website, joining more than 1,350 blue trees across Australia that serve as powerful symbols encouraging open and supportive conversations around mental health.
At the Rotary Club of Carindale, we believe small actions can make a big difference. By turning dead trees into beacons of hope, we are helping break down the stigma around mental health and reminding people that it’s okay to talk about struggles — and to seek help.